We will update this page regularly to keep you informed.
Update 3 May 2024 - Clydevale Avenue Reserve re-opened to the public
Clean up works at Clydevale Avenue in Clyde North have now been completed, temporary fencing has been removed and the playground is now open to the public.
Update 26 April 2024 – asbestos confirmed at Clydevale Avenue Reserve, Clyde North
Our proactive inspection program identified suspected asbestos from a small sample in a mulched garden bed at Clydevale Avenue Reserve. Test results have confirmed the sample is positive for asbestos.
We have taken immediate action and installed temporary fencing to prevent public access to the area.
Clean up works will begin the week commencing Monday 29 April.
We will update this page when clean up works are completed and the park is re-opened to the public.
Update 17 April 2024 - Minihans Reserve re-opened
We have completed clean up works at Minihans Reserve, and a clearance certificate has now been issued for the site. Fencing around the area will be removed this week.
Our proactive inspection program of parks and playgrounds across Casey will continue over the coming weeks.
Update 12 April 2024
Over recent weeks, Council teams have been conducting proactive inspections of parks and playgrounds across the City of Casey, 30 locations have been inspected to date.
Unfortunately, a small sample from a mulched garden bed at Minihans Reserve has tested positive for asbestos, we have taken immediate action to prevent public access to the site. We conducted further testing on Friday 12 April, which will continue into next week. It's important to note that the same was not found near the playground area.
The small pieces of asbestos discovered were in a stable, low risk form, however Council is taking this very seriously and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) have been notified.
The area will remain closed until Council teams have completed a full assessment of the site and we are confident there is no risk to the community.
How does the City of Casey source mulch for playgrounds?
The mulch used in the City of Casey’s playground areas is a high grade commercially produced soft mulch. Mulch in garden beds and other open spaces is sourced from recycled trees only.
What is Council doing to address the risk of asbestos contamination in parks?
As a result of recent discoveries of asbestos contaminated mulch in parks across Melbourne, Council have implemented a proactive inspection program of our parks and playgrounds. 30 locations have been inspected so far.
We will continue to follow any updated guidance and advice from the EPA regarding the management of asbestos in open spaces.
What is the difference between non-friable (bonded) and friable asbestos?
Non-friable asbestos is mixed with cement or resin which keeps fibres in place. It is also referred to as bonded asbestos. Non-friable asbestos poses a risk of releasing airborne fibres if damaged.
Friable asbestos is easily crushed into a powder. Friable asbestos poses a higher risk than bonded asbestos of airborne fibres being released when handled.
Learn more by visiting Asbestos in Victoria website.
What should I do if I have visited a site where asbestos has been detected?
We understand you may be concerned if you or your loved ones have spent time in an area where asbestos has been detected. The form of asbestos discovered at Minihans Reserve is non-friable, meaning it poses a low risk to the public. Learn more by visiting Asbestos in Victoria website.
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) have information regarding their response.
One way that you can assist in protecting you and your family’s health and safety is by avoiding digging up plant beds, mulch and dirt when enjoying our parks and open spaces.
How long will an impacted park be closed for?
The safety and wellbeing of our community is of the utmost importance to us. Despite the detected asbestos being in a stable, low-risk form we are exercising full caution. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has been notified, and the area will remain closed until we have completed a full assessment of the site and are confident that there is minimal risk to the public.
Reporting asbestos
If you notice building waste or other contaminated material on Council land, do not disturb it and report it to us so that we can respond appropriately.